Reno Gets More Electric Car Charging Stations

Anyone with an electric vehicle can charge it for free at two new charging stations on the University of Nevada Reno campus. But some people wonder how much the stations will be used.

“You know, we really aren’t sure yet. We hope they are used 24-7.”

UNR Assistant Parking Director Michele Horton said the stations cost 14-thousand dollars more than expected. 12 more stations are planned in Reno in the next 6 months, mostly at big businesses. Harrahs Hotel Casino has one.

“I’ve never seen anyone charge their car up in there.”

Dwight Monroe passes the stations every day on his bicycle. Nevada is behind the curve with fewer than 1,000 electric vehicles on the road. NV Energy’s Travis Johnson says promoting the growing charging network is critical to getting more Nevadans into electric vehicles.

“That is really going to help us get over the hump because people will feel comfortable enough to buy a car now that they know they won’t be stranded.”